The Community Development Partners

Project Themes

SEEDA is leading the regeneration of Queenborough & Rushenden working with a range of partners and technical experts to consider the full range of development issues;

RESIDENTIAL

Design, marketing and ground conditions are important factors in considering financial viability of residential developments, but a more holistic view must be taken to ensure housing growth is sustainable ? economically, socially and environmentally. SEEDA are working to ensure that proposals on density, unit types and tenure mix are led by, and balanced with, the right community infrastructure (such as roads, utilities, schooling, access to jobs) to meet the needs of the whole community. Affordable housing is a key component of the scheme that partners, including Amicus Housing, are helping us to consider.

EMPLOYMENT

There will be a full assessment of the employment opportunities available in the area known as Neats Court.This assessment will consider types and scale, inclusion of an enterprise hub/innovation centre and linkages with major existing employers such as Abbott Industries and the Port.

MARINE BUSINESS/LEISURE & TOURISM

The viability, scale, and employment opportunities associated with introducing a Marine/Leisure facility to the area will all be thoroughly examined.Tourism and educational opportunities this may bring to the project will also be given consideration.

COMMUNITY & SKILLS

All partners in the project are committed to working closely with local people to understand their existing and future requirements for healthcare, community facilities, schooling provision etc.The Planning for Real process has already enabled a large number of local people to input recommendations for change, and we are committed to continued dialogue and active partnership working with the community across the project lifetime.

SUSTAINABILITY

All matters relating to SEEDA?s current and evolving Sustainability agenda will be assessed. Sustainability will relate to the existing environment and the changes that will take place as a result of this project. An Environmental Statement will form part of the comprehensive masterplan.

TRANSPORT & INFRASTRUCTURE

All aspects of traffic/transportation requirements will be reviewed which will include a green travel plan and enhancements to cycleways and pedestrian routes. Consideration will be given to the proposed routing and design of the new relief road which links the regenerated areas with the new A249 and will include a bridge over the railway. Account will be taken of the geological, environmental and ecological issues influencing the masterplan, along with an assessment of the flood protection requirements.

COMMUNICATIONS & PR

The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) will lead on all internal/external communications regarding the Queenborough & Rushenden regeneration project. Newsletters giving updates to the communities of Queenborough & Rushenden will be posted on a regular basis, while school competitions and press releases will be organised in a coordinated effort between SEEDA, Swale Borough Council, Swale Forward and Kent County Council.